Scoping review of nurse triage in primary care

AIM: Triage in the primary care setting is critical for ensuring timely access to and continuity of care for patients. This scoping review examines how nurse triage is implemented, including the types of nurses involved, settings, triage algorithms, classification systems, and outcomes. METHODS: A search of five electronic databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central, was conducted in July 2025. RESULTS: Thirty-seven studies were included, and a narrative synthesis was used for data analysis. Nurse triage in primary care involves registered nurses, advanced practice nurses, nurse practitioners, and nurse specialists, working alone or in teams with doctors, administrative staff, or other healthcare professionals. Three types of triage algorithms were identified. Triage classification systems typically consist of 3 to 5 levels, including urgent, routine, or self-care. Computerized triage tools have been introduced in some countries. Nurses tended to overrefer pregnant women and febrile children. Overall, patients were generally satisfied with nurse triage services. This scoping review identified four key themes in primary care triage: team triage, triage algorithms, patient safety, and quality assurance. CONCLUSION: Nurse triage in primary care serves as a first and continuous point of contact for patients and ensures patient safety by providing quality care. To improve the quality of nurse triage in primary care, team-based triage and triage nurse education and training would be beneficial.